Realty One

Thursday, August 18, 2016

MCCRIMMON ANNOUNCES NEW WHEAT KINGS STAFF

30-year old Winnipeg native David Anning replaces Kelly McCrimmon, who recently accepted the Assistant General Manager’s position of the new National Hockey League franchise in Las Vegas.

McCrimmon will remain Owner and Governor of the club that announced a major restructuring to its Hockey Operations on Thursday.

Joining Anning on the bench this season will be longtime coach and fellow Winnipegger Don McGillivray and former WHL All Star defenceman Aaron Rome.

Former assistant coach Darren Ritchie meanwhile becomes the Wheat Kings’ new Director of Scouting and Tyler Plante rejoins the organization as the club’s Goaltending Coach.

Anning joined the Wheat Kings in 2012-13 after spending six seasons in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League with the Winnipeg Saints, Dauphin Kings and Steinbach Pistons. After helping the Kings win the Anavat Cup as an Assistant Coach, he took over as Head Coach and General Manager of the Winnipeg Saints.

“I’m very thankful for the opportunity offered to me by Kelly,” says Anning, who coached Team West on two occasions at the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. “It goes without saying that this is a very proud and storied franchise and I’ve been very fortunate to have worked with great players and staff for the past four seasons in Brandon.”

“I value the philosophy and loyalty that is engrained throughout the organization and I’m very excited for the challenge that lies ahead,” added Anning, who played four seasons with the MJHL’s Saints.

“I am happy for David to get this opportunity,” says McCrimmon. “He is an excellent young coach, has great experience and embodies what we stand for and believe in.”